CWS3: A Complete Guide to Grey Squirrel Control Funding
Grey squirrels are one of the biggest threats to UK woodlands. They strip bark, damage young trees, suppress natural regeneration, and pose a threat to native red squirrels. For landowners and conservationists looking to protect their woodland, the CWS3: Grey Squirrel Control & Management grant under the Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT) scheme offers an opportunity to fund sustainable control measures.
What is the CWS3 Grant?
The CWS3 grant is part of the UK government’s Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier programme. It provides long-term funding (~£60/ha/year) for woodland owners to implement grey squirrel control measures and protect biodiversity. This funding helps cover:
Ecologist-led planning and strategy
Monitoring sites for grey squirrel activity
Habitat impact assessments
Sustainable control measures, including culling
Why Grey Squirrel Control is Critical
Grey squirrels are invasive in the UK and can cause significant ecological and economic damage:
Bark stripping kills young trees and reduces timber quality
Overpopulation suppresses woodland regeneration
Threatens native red squirrels and overall biodiversity
Without effective management, woodland health declines, affecting long-term sustainability and grant eligibility.
Requirements for CWS3 Funding
To comply with CWS3 and secure funding, landowners must:
Set up baseline surveys and monitoring sites in Year 1
Carry out control measures according to an agreed species management plan
Conduct habitat impact assessments in Years 1, 5, and 10
Maintain detailed records for audits, including photos and monitoring data
How Wildforce UK Supports Woodland Owners
Wildforce offers ecologist-led consultancy to guide landowners through the CWS3 grant process:
Drafting and submitting a compliant species management plan
Installing monitoring sites and exclosures
Implementing ethical and effective grey squirrel control
Conducting habitat impact assessments and reporting to RPA
By combining expert guidance with sustainable practices, woodland owners can ensure grant compliance and achieve long-term ecological restoration.
Benefits of CWS3 Funding
Protect woodland regeneration and understorey vegetation
Reduce damage from grey squirrels
Support native red squirrel populations and biodiversity
Secure long-term funding for proactive woodland management
Take Action Today
Protect your woodland and make the most of CWS3 funding:
📧 Email Wildforce UK to discuss your project
📅 Book a consultation today via Wildforce UK